Moving abroad is a huge adventure full of wonderful experiences and excitement. So that the anticipation is not clouded by unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles, here are the most important tips: There are some things to keep in mind when you’re choosing to move with your spouse, fiance, partner and/or family.

Photo: Unsplash

Paperwork

Do you want to look for a job before the move? If so, then you usually have to prove certain financial reserves in order to be able to buy a plane ticket back to your home country in an emergency. How thick the financial cushion has to be varies from country to country. The fee for the work visa is also not straightforward and can vary. It is best to find out more about this directly from the respective embassy. Don’t wait too long to apply for your visa. You should submit your application and all the necessary documents to the embassy about 3 months before you move, so that you can receive your visa in good time. If you are moving with your fiance, then you may need to look at the fiance visa cost.

 

Health insurance

You already have your visa and work permit in your hands. But what else do you have to consider when moving abroad? Of course the main thing, especially in today’s world, is health insurance. This is not mandatory in every country but it is highly recommended. If you do, you have to register as an employee with a statutory insurance company in the destination country. Your employer will often do this for you if you’re moving with work. If there is no compulsory insurance abroad, private insurance is very advisable. A foreign health insurance is ideal here.

Luggage and transport

It is best that you plan what you want to take and how you will do so. Europe-wide rental car companies such as Europcar are now making land transport easy – but if the freight is to go overseas, things are different. In this case, you should contact a company specializing in international removals about 2 to 3 months before your planned departure date. You may want to put certain things in storage too, so be sure to do your research.

Pets

Note that you are not allowed to take all animal species with you abroad. This could endanger the local ecosystem. Find out about import regulations at the responsible embassy in advance. Then you can work out how much it may cost to transport your beloved pet. A cat and dog may be straightforward but more exotic pets such as snakes may be a little trickier. It is best that you are sure that this is the best decision for them or if a new home is best for them too. Moving to a new life abroad is an exciting prospect but also a stressful one. It is a new chapter, and you may feel a little nervous. But with proper planning and having every bit of paperwork in order, you can certainly create a new happy life with your spouse.